"To be a Vulcan, to be 'Hilo,’ is very significant in my life and the lives of my family," Irvin said. "I am looking forward to a great reunion with our Hilo community and our Athletic Department.

"I am appreciative of the job that Dr. Hong has done to stabilize the Athletic Department and the support and trust that she and the chancellor have displayed in me and my abilities.”

Irvin spent the past decade as the director of athletics of fellow Pacific West Conference member Dixie State College in St. George, Utah. During his tenure, he increased fundraising and contributions to over $500,000 per year, and guided the program from junior college status to the NCAA Division II level.

Irvin's experience includes coaching women's basketball at Dixie State College (2001-05), Western New Mexico University (1988-93), Clarendon College (1985-88) and Utah Valley Community College (1978-79). In addition, Irvin was an athletic director for the Utah County Boys Club (1980) and Kirtland Central High School in New Mexico (1995-99).

"Coming to UH Hilo is one of the smartest, best moves I have made in my career," Irvin said. "I feel like the Indiana Jones of Athletics and that I am in this great adventure."

“I’ve always said that good things come to those who wait," Vice Chancellor for Student Services and Acting Athletic Director Dr. Luoluo Hong said. "Well,we have been very patient, and as a result have ended up with a GREAT new athletic director. He is exactly what we need in Vulcan Athletics, what we need for UH Hilo and what we need for the Big Island.

"I am so excited that Dexter has agreed to join the UH Hilo ʻohana as our next AD!”

"Dexter's commitment to excellence in academics and athletics, his ability to connect with people and his sound fiscal sense make him a perfect fit for UH Hilo," Chancellor Dr. Rose Y. Tseng said. "His student-athletes at Dixie State earned the Pacific West Conference Community Engagement Award this year, a reflection of Dexter's own community engagement. We expect Dexter will feel right at home with the island sprit of aloha and we're delighted to welcome him to UH Hilo."